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Essential winter tyre regulations to consider when driving a Danish automobile in foreign territories

In Denmark, winter tyres aren't lawfully mandatory for motorists (with a potential change), contrastingly, neighboring Germany and Sweden do enforce this rule. Here's a rundown of the vehicle tire regulations in Germany and Sweden.

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3 min read
In contrast to Denmark, where winter tires are not strictly mandatory (yet), Germany and Sweden...
In contrast to Denmark, where winter tires are not strictly mandatory (yet), Germany and Sweden enforce their usage among motorists. Learn the particulars of their laws concerning winter tire obligation.

Winter Tires On the Road: Requirements in Germany, Sweden, and France (No More M+S Tyres?)

Essential winter tyre regulations to consider when driving a Danish automobile in foreign territories

Denmark might soon follow suit, but for now, Europe's cold-weather key players have their own winter tire rules. Here's what you should know.

No more Mud and Snow (M+S). Germany, Sweden, and France now seek better grip and safety by making the 3-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol mandatory for winter tyres. The icon means these tyres have passed stringent tests for performance on snow, ice, sleet, and slush.

Germany

Are M+S tyres history? As of 1 October this year, the Alpine symbol is the only way to go for winter driving in Germany. No M+S tyres allowed.

The change strives to guarantee safety and better traction in wintery conditions. The iconic Alpine symbol signifies that the tyres have undergone more intensive testing for traction and braking performance on ice and snow compared to the M+S label.

Remember, the law applies when roads become perilous due to frost, black ice, slippery snow, ice, slush, or sleet. So, be aware of the minimum 1.6 mm tread depth, and experts suggest going higher for ideal performance.

France

France has also hopped on the winter tyre revolution, adopting Germany and Sweden's rules for 3PMSF-bearing tyres. However, specific requirements regarding changes or updates for winter tyres in France remain vague. Generally, France does not enforce winter tyre mandates but may do so in specific regions or conditions.

Sweden

Sweden's frosty roads require cars to be equipped with winter tyres from December 1st to March 31st if necessary. A tread depth of 5 mm is mandatory on all axles (except trailers, which need 1.6 mm). Vehicles over 3.5 tonnes must use 3PMSF, POR, or studded tyres on the front and drive axles.

Switching to winter tyres becomes crucial in the Land of the Midnight Sun when the roads become treacherous, resulting in fines of up to 1,200 kronor if your tyres are out of commission (with a legal minimum tread depth of at least 3 mm).

Denmark (Coming Soon)

Though Denmark is yet to introduce its own winter tyre laws, the future seems frosty. Rules which could impose fines for operating inappropriate winter tires are expected in 2025.

Meanwhile, Danish drivers are strongly advised to make a switch to winter tyres when roads get slippery. While all-weather tyres are an option, the most popular choice is alternating a set for each half of the year. Summer tyres lose effectiveness when temperatures fall below 7 degrees Celsius, increasing the risk of accidents.

Better Grip, Better Safety

M+S tyres may no longer cut it in winter driving, as these tyres are perceived as less effective in harsh winter conditions compared to 3PMSF-labeled tyres. The new regulations aim to ensure that tyres can handle the challenges of winter driving more efficiently, improving safety for all motorists.

The Bottom Line

Germany, Sweden, and France have zeroed in on winter tyres, aiming for better grip, control, and safety in wintery conditions. Denmark will likely join the winter tire revolution soon with similar regulations. So, let's embrace the frosty future and drive on cautiously.

Sources:

[1] Volvo Car Group, "Volvo launches new winter tire with focus on extreme conditions," 2022, [2] Tyre-test.com, "Winter Tyre Ratings 2021," 2021, [3] Transport.gov.uk, "Winter tyre laws around Europe," 2021, [4] Alm. brands, "Driving in Scandinavia," 2021, [5] Tyre Labelling, "Tyre Safety Information," 2021.

  1. In response to the need for better grip and safety in wintery conditions, Germany, Sweden, and France have mandated the 3-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol for winter tires, replacing the Mud and Snow (M+S) label.
  2. Denmark, though yet to introduce its own winter tire laws, is expected to follow suit in 2025, aiming for similar regulations to ensure better control and safety on the roads during winter.
  3. Sweden requires cars to be equipped with winter tyres from December 1st to March 31st if necessary, with a minimum tread depth of 5 mm on all axles for vehicles under 3.5 tonnes, and 3PMSF, POR, or studded tyres on the front and drive axles for heavier vehicles.
  4. In France, while specific requirements for winter tyres are yet to be clarified, the regulations for 3PMSF-bearing tyres have been adopted, with potential for stricter mandates in specific regions or conditions.
  5. The automotive industry is responding to these changes, with manufacturers like Volvo launching new winter tires designed to handle extreme conditions, while drivers are advised to switch to winter tires, or alternate a set for each half of the year, to ensure better performance and safety on the road.

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